Columbus County deputies seek public help identifying suspect tied to Dollar General larceny in Tabor City

Investigation centers on Sept. 20 incident at Swamp Fox Highway East store

The Columbus County Sheriff’s Office is asking for the public’s assistance in identifying a suspect connected to a larceny at a Dollar General in Tabor City, North Carolina. Investigators say the case remains open and that information from the community could help determine the identity and whereabouts of those involved.

Deputies reported that three men entered the Dollar General on Swamp Fox Highway East on Sept. 20, 2025, and left with merchandise. Investigators reviewed video from the business and said footage shows one of the men placing items inside his camouflage jacket and pants before the group left the store.

How residents can provide information

Authorities are encouraging anyone who recognizes the individuals shown in released images, or anyone with relevant information about the incident, to contact the Sheriff’s Office. Tips can be provided by phone at 910-642-6551 or submitted through the Sheriff’s Office’s online tip form, which allows anonymous reporting.

Officials have urged the public to send identifying information directly to investigators rather than posting names publicly.

What is known—and what remains unclear

Investigators have not publicly released an itemized list of what was taken or an estimated value of the merchandise, and no arrests were announced in connection with the Sept. 20 case at the time of the request for public assistance. The Sheriff’s Office has characterized the matter as an active investigation.

Because the case relies in part on surveillance video, identification efforts typically focus on clothing, distinguishing physical features, and any available vehicle information. Officials have not confirmed whether a vehicle description has been developed or whether additional video from nearby locations is being reviewed.

Separate Dollar General larceny investigations in the county

The Sheriff’s Office has made other public requests in recent years seeking identification of individuals in separate Dollar General larceny investigations across Columbus County, including incidents in Whiteville and Tabor City. Those cases were treated as distinct investigations, and officials have not indicated whether they are related.

What happens after a tip is received

Information submitted by the public is typically assessed alongside available evidence such as surveillance footage, witness statements, and any prior incident reports. Tips can help investigators confirm identities, locate suspects, and establish timelines, but officials generally require independent corroboration before an arrest is made.

• Incident location: Dollar General, Swamp Fox Highway East, Tabor City
• Incident date: Sept. 20, 2025
• How to contact investigators: 910-642-6551 or the Sheriff’s Office online tip form